Doctors Advise Elderly to Avoid Extended Overland Journeys, Here's Why

JAKARTA – The tradition of Lebaran homecoming journeys is often undertaken using various modes of transport, including overland travel by car, bus, or train. However, for elderly people, prolonged overland journeys can pose several health risks.

Dr Ega Jaya, Sp.KFR, AIFO-K, a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation, has advised elderly people against undertaking overland journeys of excessive duration, particularly if the journey occurs without sufficient breaks.

According to him, elderly bodies are generally more vulnerable to muscle complaints and blood circulation disorders when required to remain in a seated position for extended periods.

One problem that can emerge amongst elderly people during overland journeys is immobilisation, or a lack of movement over extended periods. Sitting for too long inside a vehicle can cause the body to feel stiff and uncomfortable.

“Prolonged immobilisation inside the vehicle makes the body stiff, and blood circulation becomes poor. The maximum should really be just 3 to 4 hours,” said Dr Ega.

When the body remains in the same position for a long time, muscles and joints become less active. This condition can cause stiffness in the body, particularly in the back, lower back, and neck regions. Additionally, blood flow can also become suboptimal. If blood circulation is not smooth, elderly people risk experiencing leg swelling, discomfort, or more rapid fatigue.

If elderly people must undertake overland journeys of considerable duration, Dr Ega emphasised the importance of providing rest breaks at regular intervals. Stopping at rest areas gives elderly people the opportunity to stand, walk briefly, and move their bodies. These simple activities can help reduce muscle tension resulting from sitting for extended periods.